Many people struggle to connect with God spiritually. One reason for this is the pain and chaos in the world. It’s a valid question: If God is all-powerful and all-knowing, why does He allow such terrible things to happen? I’ve asked that myself, especially in moments of deep grief or confusion. Why would a loving God allow children to die or stand by during a national crisis?

To understand, we have to go back to the beginning. When God created Adam, He gave humanity dominion over the earth. But when Adam chose to eat the forbidden fruit, he handed over that authority to Satan. That act introduced sin into the world, and with it came evil, suffering, and death. From that moment, Satan became what Scripture refers to as the “god of this world” (2 Corinthians 4:4).

But the story doesn’t end there. Jesus came, lived sinlessly, died for our sins, and rose again. He defeated death and reclaimed authority. He gave that authority back, but only to believers. We are called to partner with God through prayer, faith, and obedience to bring His will to earth.

So when you see tragedy, heartbreak, or evil, know this: God is not the one doing those things to you. That is the work of the enemy.

Still, you might wonder, if God sees these things happening, why doesn’t He just step in?

Because God is just. He honors His Word. And in His Word, He gave us free will and spiritual authority. Like a loving parent, He won’t force His way into our lives uninvited. But the moment we call on Him, He moves. He listens. He acts. He guides.

Think of it like this. As an adult, my parents don’t just insert themselves into my life without me asking. But when I reach out, they’re there with wisdom, comfort, and help. That’s how our relationship with God works too. But unlike earthly parents, God has no limits. He sees everything. He knows everything. And He can redeem anything.

Even when bad things happen, God can turn them around for your good. Not because He caused them, but because His mercy and power can redeem anything. Romans 8:28 says, “All things work together for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose.”

Let’s not confuse that verse. It doesn’t mean God causes the bad. It means He can use it, redirect it, and weave it into something meaningful, even beautiful.

So I want to encourage you to build a real relationship with God. Talk to Him. Invite Him into your daily life. Religion and people may have hurt you, but God isn’t like them. He is not human. He doesn’t lie. He doesn’t fail. He is your Father, and He loves you.

There’s a part of you that longs to be connected to Him. I believe we never feel fully whole without that connection.